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last wk.

Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors Set for Playoff Rematch

The first-round series begins tonight with contrasting strategies as Houston seeks to disrupt Golden State's rhythm and the Warriors aim for disciplined defense.

Rockets guard Fred VanVleet falls and throws up a shot on a foul by the Warriors’ Draymond Green to end the first half of their game at Chase Center on April 6.
Houston Rockets forward Amen Thompson, dribbling around Jimmy Butler, will be one of the primary defenders harassing the Warriors’ Stephen Curry.
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Overview

  • The Rockets, led by coach Ime Udoka, return to the playoffs for the first time since 2020 as the No. 2 seed and will face the No. 7 seed Warriors in Game 1 tonight in Houston.
  • Udoka has publicly emphasized a physical, foul-heavy defensive approach to unsettle Golden State, while Warriors coach Steve Kerr has stressed disciplined, non-fouling defense in response.
  • Golden State, featuring seasoned players like Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler, benefited from a rare four-day break after clinching their playoff spot via the play-in tournament.
  • Analysts anticipate Dillon Brooks will play a key defensive role for Houston, potentially guarding Jimmy Butler in what could become a contentious matchup.
  • The Warriors and Rockets share a storied playoff history, with Golden State winning all four previous postseason series between the teams from 2015 to 2019.